Dogs bring joy, loyalty, and companionship into our lives. But despite their friendly nature, dogs can sometimes pose serious risks. Each year, approximately 4.5 million people in the United States are bitten by dogs, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These attacks can result in severe injuries, lasting trauma, and even death.
In New York State, the legal landscape for dog bite victims has recently undergone a major transformation. On April 17, 2025, the New York Court of Appeals issued a landmark decision in Flanders v. Goodfellow that expanded the rights of those injured by animals. The ruling allows victims to sue dog owners not only under the traditional theory of strict liability, but also for negligence—broadening the legal options available to those seeking justice.
Two Legal Paths to Compensation
Historically, New York law followed a strict liability approach, meaning a dog owner could be held responsible for a bite only if the victim could prove the dog had known “vicious propensities” and that the owner was aware—or should have been aware—of them. This rule, often referred to as the “one-bite rule,” made it difficult for many injured victims to recover damages.
That changed with the Flanders decision. The Court of Appeals ruled that injured individuals can now also pursue negligence claims against dog owners. This means that even if a dog had no prior history of aggression, an owner may still be held legally responsible if they failed to take reasonable precautions to prevent the attack. Failing to leash a dog, secure a gate, or warn visitors of a dog’s presence could now constitute negligence.
As a result, dog bite victims in New York can now seek compensation through two legal channels: strict liability if the dog had known dangerous tendencies, and negligence if the owner’s actions—or inactions—led to the bite, regardless of the dog’s past behavior.
Who Can File a Dog Bite Claim in New York?
If you’ve been bitten by a dog in New York, you may have a legal case—but certain conditions must be met. First, the statute of limitations for dog bite cases is three years from the date of the incident. Waiting too long to take legal action may result in losing your right to sue.
Your legal status on the property also matters. If you were bitten in a public place or while lawfully on private property, you may have a valid claim. However, if you were trespassing at the time of the bite, your ability to recover damages may be limited. Courts will also examine whether you provoked the dog. Victims who were teasing, tormenting, or otherwise provoking the animal may be denied compensation.
To support a claim under strict liability, you must demonstrate that the dog had a history of aggression—such as past bites, lunging at people, or threatening behavior—and that the owner knew or should have known. Under the new negligence standard, you can also argue that the owner failed to act with reasonable care, such as by not leashing the dog or failing to restrain it during a visit.
What Compensation Is Available?
Successful claimants may be entitled to recover a range of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and compensation for disfigurement or scarring. It’s important to note that New York follows the rule of comparative negligence. If you are found to be partially responsible for the incident—for example, by approaching a visibly agitated dog—your compensation may be reduced proportionally.
Additional Legal Considerations
New York law requires all dogs to be licensed and vaccinated against rabies. If a dog that bites someone is unlicensed or unvaccinated, the owner may face fines or additional legal consequences. Victims should report any bite to local animal control or law enforcement agencies, as official documentation can help establish a history of aggression and prevent future attacks.
Seeking prompt medical attention is essential, even for seemingly minor bites. Dog bites can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream and lead to serious infections if not properly treated. Keep all medical records and document your injuries—these details are crucial for any legal claim.
Prevention and Responsibility
Dog owners play a vital role in preventing bites. Proper training, socialization, use of leashes and gates, and supervision around children are all critical measures. Individuals should also take precautions by avoiding unfamiliar dogs and exercising caution around animals that appear aggressive or unattended.
How Our Law Firm Can Help
At Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC, we understand how traumatic and life-altering a dog bite can be. With the recent changes in New York dog bite law, it’s more important than ever to have an experienced attorney by your side. Our team has a deep understanding of both strict liability and negligence law, and we can help you build a strong case for compensation.
We offer free consultations to evaluate your situation, and we work on a contingency fee basis—meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation on your behalf. From investigating the incident and collecting evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, we provide comprehensive support throughout every step of the process.
Our firm has a strong track record of achieving favorable settlements and verdicts for clients across New York State. If you or a loved one has been bitten by a dog, don’t wait. Contact Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC to learn about your rights and take the first step toward recovery.
